Now I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the hunt for comfy, functional men’s athleisure wear.
As much as I love my tried-and-true brands, I gotta switch it up every now and then!
So when I recently stumbled upon Public Rec’s best selling, I’ll admit – I was intrigued.
Their relaxed-fit All Day Every Day Joggers and Foundation Short Sleeve Tee seemed legit.
But at $78 for the joggers and $48 for the tee? A bit out of my budget.
Cue the hunt for similar brands to get the look for less!
After tons of digging and testing some pieces myself, I found a few awesome brands making similar gear that won’t break the bank.
Whether you’re looking for loungewear, workout attire, or just casual everyday wear, these Public Rec dupes have got you covered:
Lululemon
Known for their buttery soft leggings, Lululemon also makes killer men’s athleisure wear.
Their Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve shirt is extremely similar to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
It’s made from their lightweight, sweat-wicking Silverescent fabric that stretches four ways for mobility.
The tee features flatlock seams to prevent chafing and is styled with a roomy fit perfect for everyday wear.
I’d say Lulu’s Abc Jogger is a spot-on dupe for Public Rec’s All Day Every Day jogger too.
It’s made from their proprietary Warpstreme fabric that feels lightweight and breathable but is also durable with four-way stretch.
The joggers feature an elastic waistband with external drawcord, side pockets, and a tapered leg – just like Public Rec’s relaxed silhouette.
While the ankle zips differ slightly, Lululemon’s ABC Jogger provides nearly identical comfort and performance.
Lululemon’s pieces are definitely more expensive, but the quality technical fabrics and athletic-inspired styling make them worth it for fitness enthusiasts.
Vuori
Vuori is another premium athleisure brand that’s still cheaper than Public Rec. Their Banks Jogger is extremely similar to Public Rec’s jogger silhouette.
It’s made from a lightweight and stretchy performance knit fabric blend including rayon and spandex for moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool.
The joggers feature an elastic waistband with adjustable internal drawcord, side slash pockets, and a tapered leg cut – nearly identical to Public Rec.
While the fabric composition differs slightly for more stretch, Vuori’s Banks Jogger matches Public Rec’s comfort and visual styling. For tee shirts, Vuori’s Strato Tech Tee feels just as lightweight, breathable and quick-drying as Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
It’s made from a textured pique knit fabric blend including spandex for stretch. This Vuori tee fits slightly more slim than Public Rec’s roomy silhouette, but provides exceptional performance and quality perfect for active guys.
Champion
As far as comfort and affordability go, you can’t go wrong with Champion. Their Powerblend Fleece Jogger is extremely similar to Public Rec’s joggers but at nearly half the price.
Champion’s joggers feature a soft cotton-polyester fleece fabric, elastic waistband with adjustable exterior drawstring, side pockets, and tapered leg – just like Public Rec’s silhouette.
While the fabric blend differs slightly, the Powerblend Fleece Jogger provides the same premium feel and cosy warmth. Champion’s loose fit tee shirts, like the Powerblend Fleece or Cotton Jersey Crew, are also great cheap alternatives to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
While they lack some of the technical fabric, Champion’s cotton tees provide exceptional comfort, breathability and versatility for everyday wear. The relaxed fit through the body and arms mirrors Public Rec’s roomy silhouette as well.
Nike
It’s no surprise Nike makes activewear that rivals premium brands like Public Rec.
Their Sportswear Club Fleece Joggers are nearly indistinguishable from Public Rec’s relaxed joggers aside from Nike’s signature swoosh logo.
They feature the same cotton-polyester fleece fabric, side pockets, elastic waistband with drawcord and tapered leg.
Nike’s cotton tee shirts like the Breathe Crew also provide similar breathability, sweat-wicking performance, and comfort to Public Rec’s Foundation tee. The Nike tee has more of an athletic fit but is made from soft, lightweight cotton with mesh paneling for extra airflow.
While the styling leans sportier, Nike delivers exceptional quality and comfort at a more affordable price point than Public Rec.
New Balance
In addition to their famous dad shoes, New Balance makes excellent athletic basics and loungewear.
Their Impact Run 5″ Short is extremely similar to Public Rec’s 7″ All Day Every Day Short featuring the same lightweight woven fabric, side pockets, and straight fit through the legs.
New Balance’s relaxed Go-To Tee also mirrors the comfort and roomy fit of Public Rec’s Foundation tee. It’s made from soft, light cotton with NB’s exclusive odor-resistant technology for all day wear.
The Go-To tee fits slightly trimmer in the arms than Public Rec’s, but provides great breathability and ease of movement. New Balance offers comparable performance and quality to Public Rec at a more affordable mid-range price point.
Gap
For more budget-friendly options, you can’t go wrong with Gap. Their GapFit Stretch Jersey Joggers are nearly identical to Public Rec’s joggers at a fraction of the price.
They feature the same elastic waistband, tapered leg, and side pockets in a super soft and breathable cotton-modal jersey knit. The fabric is a bit lighter than Public Rec’s French terry, but provides the same casual comfort.
Gap’s Short Sleeve Crews are also great inexpensive cotton tee alternatives to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
While they lack some performance tech features, Gap’s basics nail the relaxed menswear fit, soft handfeel, and breathability that Public Rec is known for.
Uniqlo
Known for quality basics at wallet-friendly prices, Uniqlo is another great Public Rec dupe source. Their EZY Ankle Length Pants look and feel just like Public Rec’s joggers, with an elastic waistband, roomy hip and thigh and tapered leg.
The fabric is a lightweight cotton-poly blend rather than French terry, but provides the same casual comfort. Uniqlo’s AIRism tee shirts also provide exceptional breathability, moisture-wicking performance and quick-drying comfort like Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
The smooth AIRism fabric looks like a basic cotton tee but has advanced tech features like odor minimizing. Uniqlo’s thoughtful designs and quality materials make their basics a steal.
Everlane
With their focus on ethical factories and quality materials, Everlane makes excellent Public Rec alternatives.
Their French Terry Sweatpant is virtually indistinguishable from Public Rec’s joggers featuring the same cotton fleece fabric, elastic waist with drawcord, slash pockets and tapered leg. Everlane’s Box-Cut Pocket Tee is also a great roomy fit alternative to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
It’s made from lightweight 100% cotton with a boxier fit through the body and short sleeve. The pocket gives it a slightly different look, but Everlane’s tee provides that signature relaxed menswear vibe.
While the styling is more minimalist, Everlane matches Public Rec’s exceptional comfort and quality.
H&M
Known for affordable trendy fashion, H&M makes surprisingly good activewear too. Their Cotton Jersey Joggers match Public Rec’s relaxed silhouette with an adjustable drawstring waist, side pockets, and tapered leg.
The soft cotton jersey fabric provides exceptional comfort for lounging or workouts.
For tee’s, H&M’s Regular Fit Cotton Crew Neck Tee is a great moisture-wicking polyester-cotton blend alternative to Public Rec’s Foundation tee at only $12.99! While the fabric differs slightly, H&M’s tee fits and feels like a premium piece for an unbelievable price.
Old Navy
Old Navy’s athleisure offerings rival the big sportswear brands these days. Their Powersoft Joggers are a worthy Public Rec dupe featuring moisture-wicking fabric, elastic waist with drawcord, side pockets and tapered leg.
The poly-spandex blend fabric is a bit thicker than Public Rec’s, but delivers premium performance and comfort at a bargain price point. Old Navy’s Go-Dry Tees are also excellent super soft alternatives to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
The lightweight jersey knit and relaxed menswear fit mirror Public Rec’s iconic silhouette. While the sporty styling differs slightly, Old Navy nails the quality, comfort and value Public Rec is loved for.
Soffe
Known for comfortable military basics, Soffe makes affordable activewear that rivals the big brands. Their Russell Midweight Fleece Jogger matches Public Rec’s fleece fabric and relaxed jogger silhouette nearly identically.
Soffe’s Performance Short Sleeve Tee is also a prime polyester-cotton tee alternative to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
It wicks moisture and dries quickly with flatlock seams for chafe-free wear. The fit is slightly more athletic than Public Rec’s, but Soffe truly delivers on performance and value with their activewear offerings.
32 Degrees
This Costco brand makes exceptional activewear at prices rivaling budget brands. Their Cool Joggers are indistinguishable from Public Rec’s with the same relaxed fit, fleece fabric, elastic waist and tapered leg.
I’d say 32 Degrees’ Short Sleeve V-Neck Tees are comparable too – made from lightweight moisture-wicking polyester with mesh paneling for extra breathability during workouts.
The v-neck silhouette differs slightly from Public Rec’s classic crew neck, but 32 Degrees nails the function, feel and value that can’t be beat.
Hanes
Known for quality basics, Hanes’ Lay Flat Short Sleeve Jersey Knit Tee is an ideal budget-friendly alternative to Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
It’s styled in the same relaxed silhouette with a roomy fit through the body and short sleeves. The soft cotton jersey knit fabric provides exceptional comfort and breathability for all-day wear.
While it lacks some of the technical features, Hanes’ tee is perfect for guys who want that casual menswear look for less.
Fruit of the Loom
Fruit of the Loom is another excellent source for comfortable basics on a budget. Their Jersey Knit Joggers mimic Public Rec’s relaxed jogger silhouette in lightweight cotton with drawstring waist and tapered leg.
Fruit of the Loom’s HD Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt is also a prime inexpensive substitute for Public Rec’s Foundation tee.
The ultra-soft cotton fabric feels great against the skin and allows for easy movement. While the fit runs slightly slimmer than Public Rec’s, Fruit of the Loom delivers exceptional everyday comfort at bargain prices.
Dickies
Known for durable workwear, Dickies makes quality loungewear and active basics too. Their jersey knit joggers match Public Rec’s carefree silhouette in an easy pull-on style.
Dickies’ Short Sleeve Pocket Tees are also great affordable alternatives to Public Rec’s Foundation tee. They’re crafted from soft cotton jersey with moisture-wicking polyester mesh inside the pocket for ventilation.
The relaxed fit through the chest and arms matches Public Rec’s signature boxier silhouette. Dickies exceeds expectations with the comfort and quality of their budget-friendly basics.
Outdoor Voices
This brand has exploded in popularity for their fun, inclusive athleisure wear. Outdoor Voices’ Textured Tech Sweatpant provides a more lightweight, breathable alternative to Public Rec’s French terry joggers.
They feature an adjustable drawcord waist, side pockets, and tapered leg in moisture-wicking textured sweat fabric.
The CloudKnit Sweatshirt is also an excellent substitute for Public Rec’s Foundation tee with its super soft and breathable cotton blend fabric.
Outdoor Voices has more color variety and a cool relaxed vibe that sets them apart. While prices are higher, their unique spin on athleisure is worth checking out.
Ten Thousand
Focused on versatile, functional workout wear, Ten Thousand makes excellent Public Rec alternatives. Their Session Short is a prime substitute for Public Rec’s joggers crafted from lightweight Italian stretch woven fabric with sweat-wicking technology.
The shorts feature an elastic waist, zippered side pockets and 7-inch inseam. Ten Thousand’s Foundation Training Shirt also mirrors the soft, breathable comfort of Public Rec’s go-to tee. It’s cut from sustainable Repreve fabric in a relaxed but athletic silhouette.
Expect premium performance and craftsmanship from Ten Thousand at mid-range prices comparable to Public Rec.
Mack Weldon
Known for men’s underwear and basics, Mack Weldon also makes quality athleisure wear. Their Ace Sweatpant is a perfect match for Public Rec’s relaxed jogger in premium French terry cotton with moisture-wicking properties.
It features an elastic drawstring waist and side pockets with a tapered leg. Mack Weldon’s Cirrus Crew is also an ideal soft, breathable alternative to Public Rec’s everyday tee. It’s crafted from lightweight jersey knit cotton with an easy relaxed fit.
The quality and comfort are second to none. While the styling is more understated, Mack Weldon delivers on performance and value.
Rhone
This premium activewear brand focuses on versatile men’s basics. Rhone’s Commuter Jogger provides nearly identical comfort, performance and style to Public Rec’s relaxed joggers.
They feature an elastic waist with drawcord, side pockets and tapered leg in Rhone’s quick-drying, stretch woven fabric. The Commuter Joggers also have reflective seam taping for visibility.
Rhone’s Reign Short Sleeve is an ideal tee substitute too, crafted from lightweight moisture-wicking fabric in a classic roomy fit. With stylish designs perfect for everyday wear, Rhone delivers exceptional quality and innovation at accessible price points.
Theory
Known for sophisticated work and leisure wear, Theory also has excellent athleisure offerings. Their Alchemy Jogger Pants provide a more polished alternative to Public Rec’s relaxed fit with a straight leg tailored cut.
But they’re just as comfortable in lightweight four-way stretch jersey fabric. Theory’s Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve Tee is also a prime understated substitute for Public Rec’s classic tee. It’s crafted from moisture-wicking fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection.
While Theory’s basics skew more refined, they deliver exceptional everyday performance and quality.
Bonobos
Beloved for their perfect-fitting pants, Bonobos also excels at men’s basics. Their French Terry Joggers are indistinguishable from Public Rec’s aside from the signature curved waistband.
Made from soft cotton with elastic waist and side pockets, they’re ideal for lounging and workouts. Bonobos’ Tech-Stretch Washed Tee also mirrors the casual comfort of Public Rec’s best-selling tee in moisture-wicking blended knit.
While the fitted cut differs slightly, Bonobos nails the premium quality and style. Expect exceptional comfort and versatility.
Fourlaps
This direct-to-consumer startup focuses on elevated basics made sustainably. Fourlaps’ French Terry Sweatpants provide a polished take on Public Rec’s classic joggers.
They have a straight leg instead of tapered, but the same plush cotton fleece fabric with elastic waistband and side pockets.
Fourlaps’ Go-To Tee is also a sustainable alternative to Public Rec’s, cut from soft organic cotton with an easy relaxed fit. With socially conscious practices and smart versatile designs, Fourlaps offers premium quality and comfort for the modern guy.
Flint and Tinder
This brand makes quality heritage-inspired basics and apparel. Their Marled Jogger Sweatpants offer a vintage take on Public Rec’s fleece joggers.
They feature a marled knit fabric blend, elastic waist with drawstring, and side pockets for cozy laidback style. Flint and Tinder’s garment-dyed Short Sleeve Crew is also an ideal roomy-fit substitute for Public Rec’s everyday tee.
Crafted from premium soft and broken-in cotton jersey for instant comfort right out of the bag. Expect exceptional craftsmanship and materials from Flint and Tinder at fair prices.
Reigning Champ
Known for premium basics and sweats, Reigning Champ offers high quality Public Rec alternatives. Their Midweight Terry Sweatpant provides the same relaxed jogger fit as Public Rec’s in cozy midweight cotton terry.
It features an elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord and side pockets. Reigning Champ’s Jersey Short Sleeve Tee is also an excellent super soft everyday tee.
It’s crafted from 100% pre-shrunk jersey cotton in a classic straight fit. Expect luxurious fabrics and simple versatile silhouettes from this Canadian basics brand.
Mott & Bow
This direct-to-consumer basics brand offers elevated essentials at reasonable prices. Mott & Bow’s Everyday Jogger features nearly identical design and premium comfort as Public Rec’s joggers.
They have an elastic waist with drawstring, side pockets and tapered leg in soft washed cotton with stretch.
Mott & Bow’s Everyday Tee is also a perfect match for Public Rec’s go-to shirt. It has the same roomy fit in lightweight Peruvian cotton jersey knit. With quality materials and smart versatile designs, Mott & Bow delivers excellence at an affordable price point.
Olivers
Olivers presents the Passage Pant, which is an excellent alternative to Public Rec’s All Day Every Day Pant. These pants are constructed with technical fabric that’s both breathable and flexible, making them perfect for outdoor activities or simply relaxing at home.
One of Olivers’ strengths is their commitment to versatility. The Passage Pant can easily transition from a hike in the woods to a casual evening out with friends.
If you’re an active individual who values adaptability, Olivers is a brand that aligns with your lifestyle.
Western Rise
Western Rise’s Evolution Pant is designed for flexibility and style, making it a strong contender in your search for alternatives to Public Rec.
Whether you need something for a formal event or a relaxed weekend, these pants have you covered.
What makes Western Rise stand out is their focus on multifunctionality. The Evolution Pant is tailored to be your go-to choice in a wide range of situations.
If you’re someone who appreciates clothing that can adapt to different occasions, Western Rise is a brand that should be on your radar.
Pistol Lake
If you’re drawn to minimalistic design and sustainable materials, Pistol Lake’s French Terry Sweatpants are a must-consider option. They’re straightforward, eco-friendly, and comfortable, much like Public Rec’s offerings.
Pistol Lake takes pride in their commitment to sustainability. Their clothing is not just about looking good; it’s also about feeling good about your choices.
The French Terry Sweatpants are an example of how fashion and ethics can go hand in hand. If you’re conscious about the environmental impact of your clothing, Pistol Lake is a brand to explore.
